Mercedes-Benz is joining forces with Factorial Energy to jointly develop next-generation electric vehicle (EV) battery technology with the aim of testing prototype cells as early as next year. The goal of the partnership is to start with the cell and extend development to include entire modules and integration into the vehicle battery.
Solid-state batteries are currently one of the most promising technologies in the field of electric mobility. Solid electrolytes enable a significantly optimised safety of the battery as well as the use of new types of anodes, such as lithium-metal anodes.
This type of battery offers an almost doubled energy density compared to today’s lithium-ion battery cells. As a result, they promise an increase of up to 50 percent in range and shorter charge times. Both of which are a great way of attracting people to make the transition to driving electric cars.
Factorial Energy, who are based in Woburn, Massachusetts, have developed breakthrough solid-state batteries that offer up to 50 percent longer range per charge. They also offer increased safety and cost parity with conventional lithium-ion batteries.
Markus Schäfer, member of the board of management of Daimler AG, said: “By accelerating our Mercedes-Benz strategy towards ‘electric only’, we have set the course for a fully electric future. We will also play a leading role in the field of battery technology.
“With Factorial as our new partner, we are taking research and development in the field of promising solid-state batteries to the next level. To this end, we are investing a high double-digit million dollar amount in Factorial.”
The cooperation will combine Mercedes-Benz’s expertise in battery development and vehicle integration with the comprehensive know-how of Factorial in the field of solid-state batteries. Mercedes have announced that from 2025 onwards all newly launched vehicle architectures will be electric-only.
Schäfer added: “We share the common vision of CO2 neutrality. The continuous development of innovative battery technologies will make electric mobility even more attractive for our customers.”
Mercedes-Benz aims to integrate the technology into a limited number of vehicles as part of a small series within the next five years. With its investment, Mercedes-Benz obtains the right to delegate a representative to Factorial’s Board of Directors.
Siyu Huang, Factorial co-founder and CEO, said: “For Factorial Energy, it is a privilege to collaborate with Mercedes-Benz, which basically invented the automobile.
“We look forward to working with them to further innovate the automobile with our clean, efficient and safe solid-state battery technology.”
